Program: Theater
Daniel Millhouse was drawn to the magic of theater.
“Theater has this captivating atmosphere where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and where the power of imagination and creativity takes the spotlight,” he said. “I’ve always been inspired by how theater can transport audiences to different realms and evoke a wide range of emotions.”
Millhouse is an Actors’ Equity Association actor, director, managing director and stage manager. As an actor, he has worked with Buffalo Theatre Ensemble at COD, The Shakespeare Project of Chicago, ShawChicago, A Crew of Patches, Remy Bumppo, The Second City Training Center, Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Great Lakes Theatre and Great River Shakespeare Festival. He has also worked on “Chicago Fire” and throughout the Call of Duty video game franchise. His voice can be heard on various podcasts such as “The Vanishing Act” and “The Onion’s: The Topical.”
“What I enjoy most about acting is the opportunity to impact and inspire someone in the audience,” he said. “In a drama, maybe this story can help someone gather the courage to get out of a bad relationship or quit the job that is no longer bringing them joy. In a comedy, just being able to make someone laugh can be enough to help them relieve stress from their hectic life.”
His training throughout the United States and Russia provides a unique perspective to his work, which he likes to share through the collaborative environment of the theater.
“Everyone works together to tell the best possible version of this story, and this specific story or moment will only exist with this specific group of actors/designers/artists who have been brought together,” he said. “I am devoted to producing entertaining and thought-provoking stories, creating engaging characters, and inspiring others to follow their passions, all while promoting positive change.”
Training through the various techniques allows students to become more aware of the human condition and how to become the best version of themselves.
Daniel Millhouse
Before working at College of DuPage, Millhouse taught as an acting adjunct at University of Wisconsin-Madison and Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University. He is passionate about helping students discover more about themselves and their connection to others through the art of acting.
“Training through the various techniques allows students to become more aware of the human condition and how to become the best version of themselves,” he said. “Teaching students to speak openly, honestly and specifically builds trust and confidence in themselves, allowing them to approach any situation in a more empathetic and collaborative way. Once a student finds their confidence, they are more inspired to pursue their goals and create environments that have a positive impact on those around them.
“I want to inspire these students to become the best versions of themselves, and I hope they take a sense of joy, play, honesty, openness and creativity into every aspect of their lives. I view success not based around a student’s ability to learn and practice what I teach, but rather how they use the methods of personal introspection, collaboration and communication explored in class toward completing their continuing education and knowing they can make an impact on our world.”
In return, Millhouse is inspired by his students every day.
“Their unwavering bravery in throwing themselves into the various acting exercises is truly remarkable,” he said. “It’s a joy to witness the passion and enthusiasm they bring to their work, and it’s in those moments when they start to discover and love who they are that I am the most inspired. My students leave my courses with a strong understanding of how to get past their own ‘interference’ and use any self-consciousness they may have as a strength to accomplish their goals. Their dedication and willingness to push their boundaries reminds me of the incredible potential we all hold within us, and it’s a privilege to be a part of their journey.”